Palestinians seek UN upgrade opposed by Israel, U.S. - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will address the General Assembly on Sept. 27, after which his aides will consult other nations before presenting the watered-down request to become a non-member 'observer state,' which would give Palestinians the same UN rank as the Vatican, enhancing their legal rights, as talks with Israel have come to a halt. (Haaretz)

Saudi paper: Abbas gives PA 10 days to find replacement for him - Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas says he will resign following the Sept. 27 U.N. General Assembly, according to Saudi report. Abbas reportedly frustrated by stalled peace talks, failed reconciliation efforts with Hamas, and recent protests against cost of living. (Israel Hayom)